Accra High Court denies bail to nurse in ‘Ghana Jollof’ case

An Accra High Court has denied bail to Salomey Awiti Baffoe, a 40-year-old Senior Nursing Officer facing charges of abetting the publication of false news. The case stems from a viral TikTok controversy known as the ‘Ghana Jollof’ case.

The court ruled that Baffoe’s release could pose a risk of interference with witnesses and electronic evidence during the ongoing cyber-related investigation. While the prosecution argued her cooperation is necessary to trace other suspects, the defense contended that the state provided only ‘bare depositions’ without substantial evidence of potential interference. Counsel also noted that police had already seized Baffoe’s mobile devices.

Baffoe’s legal team, led by Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, has announced plans to appeal the decision. They intend to petition the Chief Justice to allow the Court of Appeal to sit during the current vacation to expedite the matter, citing the impact of her detention on her three minor children. Additionally, Deputy Minority Leader Patricia Appiagyei has called upon Ghana’s First Lady and Vice President to intervene, highlighting the personal hardships faced by the accused as a mother.